AthlonSports.com - Von Millerhttp://athlonsports.com/category/nfl-players/von-miller
en5 X-Factors for Super Bowl 50http://athlonsports.com/nfl/5-x-factors-super-bowl-50
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p><img alt="" src="/sites/athlonsports.com/files/shared/nfl/NFC%20South/Panthers/KawannShort_2015_300.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 392px; float: right; margin: 4px;" /></p><p>The big names and obvious attention grabbers will always be at the forefront in the weeks leading up to any Super Bowl. Super Bowl 50, pitting the Carolina Panthers against the Denver Broncos, is no exception. In fact, Super Bowl 50 seems to have more storylines than usual given the unique nature of the matchup. Peyton Manning and Cam Newton alone have yielded more storylines and content than any normal human being could ever even hope to follow.<br /><br /><strong>Related: <a href="/nfl/super-bowl-50-preview-and-predictions-carolina-panthers-vs-denver-broncos" target="_blank">Super Bowl 50 Preview and Predictions &ndash; Carolina Panthers vs. Denver Broncos</a></strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That being said, there are plenty of variables at play, and it is not uncommon for an under-the-radar player or unexpected event to ultimately take center stage in deciding the outcome of the big game. Malcolm Butler&rsquo;s game-clinching interception at the end of last year&rsquo;s Super Bowl is a shining example of exactly that. The fact that the Seahawks opted to throw the ball on 2nd-and-goal from the 1-yard line, while ignoring the fact that they had the best goal-line back in the NFL, was another unexpected happening that grabbed postgame headlines following Super Bowl XLIX.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While these types of anomalies, or x-factors, usually fail to spearhead the media attention prior to the big game, they often find their way to front-page headlines on Monday morning. So, with that in mind, let&rsquo;s take a closer look at five potential x-factors for Super Bowl 50.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">Carolina Panthers DT Kawann Short</h4><p>While Short is slowly building a reputation as one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL following a breakout season in 2015, he is rarely one of the names that come to the forefront when discussing the Panthers&rsquo; star-studded defense. All-Pros like linebackers Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis, as well as cornerback Josh Norman, are usually the first names you would hear. That being said, a lot of the aforementioned names would not have the success that they do without a disruptive force like Short setting the stage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The third-year lineman out of Purdue led the Panthers with 11 sacks during the regular season, while adding 55 total tackles and forcing three fumbles. He&rsquo;s had two more sacks in the postseason, as well another forced fumble and several QB hurries. Short also serves as a menacing presence in the middle stopping the run. He may not be on your (ahem) short list of players to watch in Super Bowl 50, but No. 99 for the Panthers will likely come to your attention early and often on Sunday. Short could very well have a field day against Denver&rsquo;s sometimes-shaky offensive line (see below).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">The Broncos&rsquo; Rushing Attack</h4><p>While Peyton Manning and the passing game have garnered much of the spotlight heading into Super Bowl 50, it will likely be the Denver rushing attack that has the biggest impact on the game. Denver is a perfect 9-0 this season when rushing for at least 105 yards, leaving no question that the Broncos&rsquo; run game (for better or worse) will be paramount to the team&rsquo;s success in Super Bowl 50. There also is no question that it will be tough sledding against a stout Panther run defense, but C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman will likely be up for the challenge.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Following a terrible start to 2015, the Denver run game was able to stage a monumental turnaround in the latter half of the season, jumping from a woeful 88 rushing yards per game in their first eight to 127 yards per game in the second half of regular season. Anderson, while often under-utilized, averages 6.4 yards per carry over the last nine games of the regular season. He has gained a respectful 4.6 yards per carry in the Broncos&rsquo; two playoff games. Hillman has been less impressive down the stretch, but his track record suggests that he is certainly capable of a breakout performance. If this duo can maintain the positive momentum, Anderson and/or Hillman could easily be the x-factor(s) that decide the outcome of Super Bowl 50 in favor of the Broncos.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">A Confident Panthers vs. an Arrogant Panthers</h4><p>The 2015 Carolina Panthers will never be a team associated with a lack of confidence, especially when it comes to their charismatic quarterback and team leader Cam Newton. In fact, it is not unfair to say that Newton and the Panthers have become a little too confident at times this season. The same cocky swag that fueled them to so many dominant performances this season, also has led to complacency at times. It was this complacency that played a big role in costing the Panthers a perfect regular season against a Falcons team that they had destroyed just a couple weeks earlier. It also can be argued that over-confidence was an underlying factor in close calls against the Saints and Giants as well.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Panthers, as usual, seem to have no shortage of confidence heading into Super Bowl 50. Confidence is a good thing. All great teams have it, and it should pay positive dividends on Super Sunday if held in check. But confidence is a double-edged-sword that can quickly lead to arrogance and complacency. It has been an Achilles&rsquo; heel with this team in the past, and it could very well be the x-factor that bites the Panthers again when it counts the most. The loss that cost them their undefeated season should serve as a reminder of what can and will&nbsp; happen if they get a little too full of themselves.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">The Broncos&rsquo; Offensive Line</h4><p>Denver has certainly had its fair share of issues on offense this season, but none have been more glaring than up front. The offensive line seemed doomed from the start with the injury bug hitting this unit early and often. From pass protection to run blocking, various combinations of regular starters and patchwork replacements struggled mightily at times during the season, especially early.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The good news is that the Broncos&rsquo; patchwork offensive line has shown positive signs of progress down the stretch and in the playoffs. Denver&rsquo;s running game came alive in the latter stages of the season with the current cast of linemen paving the way. And while sacks and QB pressure remain issues of concern, a steady decrease during the latter part of the regular season and in the playoffs yields credence to some improvement in those regards as well. That being said, it will be a tall order for this group to gel into championship form on Sunday. If the Broncos&rsquo; offensive line hopes to avoid being a liability in Super Bowl 50, it must get the job done consistently against a very opportunistic Panther defense.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">A Carolina Sleeper</h4><p>Newton and tight end Greg Olsen are undoubtedly the media darlings for the Panthers&rsquo; offense, and more often than not, deservedly so. However, let&rsquo;s not forget about the supporting cast of unsung heroes that played a huge part in a wildly successful season. Those who fit the bill include everyone that makes up one of the best offensive lines in the NFL to top running back Jonathan Stewart paving the way for arguably the league&rsquo;s most potent rushing attack to a cast of unheralded wide receivers that always seem to come up with a big play when the Panthers need it most. This offense has plenty of capable playmakers and not all of them are named Newton or Olsen.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Newton and/or Olsen are the obvious odds-on favorites to be the big difference-makers on offense for the Panthers in Super Bowl 50. But it would not be shocking in the least to see Stewart or Ted Ginn Jr., or even someone like rookie Devin Funchess take home the postgame accolades when all is said and done. The same holds true for a player such as Broncos tight end Owen Daniels. There are several candidates on the defensive side of the ball for both teams that could steal the show as well. It certainly isn&rsquo;t unprecedented, as many under-the-radar players have made names for themselves on Super Sunday in the past. Just ask Malcolm Butler, Deion Branch or David Tyree to name a few.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em>&mdash; Written by Rob McVey, who is part of the Athlon Contributor Network. Follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/rob_utvols" target="_blank">@Rob_UTVOLS</a>.</em></p> </div></div></div>Fri, 05 Feb 2016 15:30:00 +0000Rob McVey108485 at http://athlonsports.comAFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Baltimore Ravens vs. Denver Broncoshttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/afc-divisional-playoff-preview-and-prediction-baltimore-ravens-vs-denver-broncos
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Arguably the NFL’s best offensive and defensive players of the past decade will go head-to-head one last time when the <strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong> and the <strong>Denver Broncos</strong> meet in Saturday’s AFC Divisional playoff game at 4:30 p.m. ET on CBS. The Ravens defeated Indianapolis 24-9 in last Sunday’s Wild Card game, allowing linebacker Ray Lewis the chance to celebrate a win in his final home game. All that stands between Lewis and extending his Hall of Fame career by at least one more game are the top-seeded Broncos, who are led by quarterback Peyton Manning. Manning is 9-2 in his career against Lewis’ Ravens, including a 2-0 mark in the playoffs, and No. 18 has not lost to them since 2001. The Broncos have won 11 games in a row, including a 34-17 victory over the Ravens in Baltimore on Dec. 16, a game that Lewis missed due to a triceps injury.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/15741-1/flacco.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Baltimore Ravens have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Baltimore’s offense finished the regular season ranked in the middle of the league in yards gained (352.5 ypg, 16th), but struggled down the stretch. The Ravens lost four of their final five games and averaged less than 320 yards of offense per game in those defeats. However, they turned it around in Sunday’s 24-9 Wild Card win over Indianapolis, piling up 441 yards. The Ravens are at their best when they are able to run the ball effectively, as evidenced by the 172 yards rushing they had against the Colts. Running back Ray Rice is the lead back, but the emergence of rookie Bernard Pierce has made the ground game that much more dangerous. Pierce, the Ravens’ third-round pick out of Temple, has averaged 105 yards rushing over his past three games, including a team-high 123 on just 13 carries (7.9 ypc) against the Colts. As a team, the Ravens averaged around 120 yards rushing per game during the regular season, and not surprisingly, they are 7-2 this season (including last week’s win) when the ground game reaches that mark. With the win over the Colts, quarterback <strong>Joe Flacco</strong> upped his career postseason record to 6-4, as he is the only starting quarterback in NFL history to win a playoff game in each of his first five seasons. Flacco threw for a career-high 3,817 yards during the regular season and had 282 yards passing against the Colts. He also had two touchdown passes and no interceptions, but for his career he is just a 54 percent passer in the playoffs with a 10:8 touchdown-to-interception ratio and an average of less than 182 yards passing per game. Just as he did during the regular season, veteran wide receiver Anquan Boldin was Flacco’s favorite target against the Colts, posting a Baltimore playoff-record 145 yards and the game-sealing touchdown catch in the fourth quarter. Tight end Dennis Pitta had the other touchdown reception in last Sunday’s win, and the Ravens need more production from vertical threat Torrey Smith (2 rec., 31 yds. vs. Colts) if they want to maximize production from the passing game. The Ravens’ offense could get a boost from return specialist Jacoby Jones, who averaged more than 30 yards per kickoff return during the regular season and had three (two kickoffs, one punt) special teams touchdowns. Two other areas of concerns for the Ravens’ offense have to be turnovers and pass protection. During the regular season, the Ravens finished tied with New England for the fewest turnovers in the AFC with 16, although Rice did lose two fumbles in the win over the Colts. After surrendering 38 sacks in the first 16 games, the Ravens’ offensive line only gave up one to the Colts. A similar, if not better, effort will be needed against Denver, as the Broncos tied for the league lead with 52 quarterback takedowns, including three of Flacco in their win in Baltimore back in December.</p>
<p>
If not for Manning’s MVP-worthy performance, Denver’s defense would be this season’s story in the Mile High city. The Broncos finished the regular season second only to Pittsburgh in total defense (290.8 ypg) and third in both rushing (91.1 ypg) and passing (199.6 ypg) defense. The Broncos also were fourth in scoring defense at 18.1 points per game and allowed more than 24 points only three times all season. Those games were the only three the Broncos have lost thus far, as the defense is holding opponents to less than 16 points per game during their current 11-game winning streak. This unit has given up more than 100 yards rushing once during this streak and has yet to allow more than 284 yards passing all season. The latter is even more impressive when you consider this defense has faced three quarterbacks — Tom Brady, Drew Brees and Matt Ryan — who finished among the top five in passing yards and touchdown passes. The secondary is led by All-Pro cornerback Champ Bailey, who earned his 12th Pro Bowl invite this season and had two of the Broncos’ 16 interceptions. However, the front seven certainly can’t be ignored, as fellow Pro Bowlers linebacker Von Miller and defensive end Elvis Dumervil combined for 29.5 of the Broncos’ league-leading (tied with Rams) 52 sacks. In addition to the sacks, Miller, who is a contender for Defensive Player of the Year honors, forced six fumbles and returned an interception for a touchdown. Collectively, the Broncos’ defense scored six touchdowns of its own during the regular season, a pretty good return on the 24 total turnovers the unit produced.</p>
<p>
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33816-1/PeytonManning_2012_300.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 312px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Denver Broncos have the ball:</span></strong><br />
When <strong>Peyton Manning</strong> made the decision to sign with Denver after severing his ties with Indianapolis, everyone expected the Broncos’ offense to be better. However, I think it’s safe to say no one predicted Manning would pass for the second-most yards and touchdowns in his illustrious career, especially after missing all of 2011 and undergoing four separate surgeries on his neck. That’s just what happened, however, as Manning finished the regular season second only to reigning MVP Aaron Rodgers in passer rating (105.8) with 4,659 yards (sixth in NFL), 37 touchdowns (third) and just 11 interceptions. Whether or not Manning adds to his record four MVP trophies remains to be seen, but No. 18 is without a doubt the biggest reason why the Broncos’ offense ranked second in yards (397.9 per game) and points (30.1). Two other primary beneficiaries of Manning’s presence have been wide receivers Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker, who have combined for 179 receptions, 2,498 yards and 23 touchdowns. Veteran Brandon Stokley and tight end Joel Dreessen each have five touchdown catches of their own, as seven different Broncos posted 21 or more receptions during the regular season. Although the statistical production may not show it, the running game also benefited from having No. 18 calling the plays. The Broncos averaged 114.5 yards rushing per game, which placed them only 16th in the league in that category, but the ground attack did produce 12 rushing touchdowns. Running back Willis McGahee was on pace for another 1,100-yard campaign when he tore his MCL and broke his leg in Week 11. McGahee is still the team's leading rusher with 731 yards and it’s possible he could return should the Broncos beat the Ravens and advance to the AFC Championship Game. In the meantime, Knowshon Moreno took over the starting job and has rushed for 510 yards and three scores in his last six games. Manning’s value under center can also be seen in the 21 sacks the Broncos have allowed, the second-fewest in the league. Turnovers have been a bit of an issue, as the Broncos have fumbled the ball away 14 times, although four of those lost fumbles belong to McGahee while Manning has none. Denver also added another weapon during the season in kick returner Trindon Holliday, who has returned a kickoff and a punt for a touchdown for the Broncos even though he started the season with Houston. Besides his production on special teams, Holliday holds a unique distinction in that he has yet to lose a game this season. He went 5-0 to open the season with the Texans before being released and picked up by Denver prior to the Broncos’ Week 6 game. Coming off a disappointing 31-21 loss in New England the week before, the Broncos came from behind to beat San Diego 35-24 on “Monday Night Football,” went on bye the next week and haven’t lost since, giving Holliday a perfect 16-0 mark on the season to this point.</p>
<p>
A top-10 unit in each of the past four seasons, the Baltimore defense took a step backwards this season, finishing the regular season ranked 17th in total defense at 350.9 yards per game. Even though the team stumbled to a 1-4 finish to close out the season, the defense posted its best performances in the final two games. The Giants and the Bengals were each held to less than 190 yards of offense, including a total of 114 yards rushing, when they played the Ravens in Weeks 16 and 17 respectively. The defense was unable to sustain this type of effort one more week, however, as the Colts piled up 419 yards on offense against them last Sunday, including 152 alone on the ground. Of course, Baltimore did hold the visitors to just nine points (on three field goals) on the scoreboard, which is the most important statistic of all. Even though the Ravens gave up a fair amount of yards during the regular season, the defense did do a respectable job of limiting the damage. They finished tied for 12th in the NFL in scoring defense at 21.5 points per game and only gave up 30 or more points four times. Unfortunately, they lost three of those games, including a 34-17 home defeat to the Broncos on Dec. 16. The Ravens’ pass defense, which allowed 228.1 yards per game in the regular season, finished higher in the rankings (17th) compared to their run defense (122.8 ypg, 20th). The defense also surrendered only 15 touchdown passes, which tied for the second-fewest allowed in the NFL, but this unit is well aware of the challenge that lies ahead in facing Peyton Manning and the Broncos’ offense, especially on their home turf. Injuries have had a significant impact on the defense, as both Lewis and defensive end Terrell Suggs missed at least half the regular season and cornerback Lardarius Webb was lost for the year back in Week 6. Lewis and Suggs are both back on the field, which can only help the Ravens, who will need to find a way to get pressure on Manning and force some turnovers in an effort to disrupt the Broncos’ offensive rhythm. The Ravens ended up in the middle of the pack in the regular season in sacks (37) and takeaways (25), but managed to bring down Indianapolis quarterback Andrew Luck three times and force him into two turnovers (INT, fumble) in last Sunday’s win.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Key Factor:</strong></span><br />
Baltimore is a playoff-tested team, having won at least one game in each of the past five postseasons, including last Sunday’s Wild Card win over Indianapolis. That said, this is a tough test for the Ravens, who have to go into Denver to play the Broncos, the AFC’s top seed, a team that tied Atlanta for the most wins in the regular season (13) and hasn’t lost since Oct. 7. Then there’s the Peyton Manning factor, as No. 18 has won nine games in a row over the Ravens, including two postseason matchups. As good as Manning has been in his first season in a Broncos’ uniform, this team is anything but one-dimensional, as the defense has also been playing at a high level throughout. This Baltimore team will run through a brick wall for Ray Lewis, their defensive and emotional leader, but the only way I see the Ravens pulling this one out is if they can find a way to turn back the clock a few years and field that vintage defense from their 2006 championship season. And even then, I’m not sure that would be enough because of the strength of Denver’s defense. It has been a remarkable and legendary career for No. 52, but Lewis’ “last ride” comes in Denver. And as one future Hall of Famer says good-bye, the focus will then shift to see if a fellow Canton-bound legend can lead his new team to the Super Bowl just a year after not taking a single snap.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Prediction:</span></strong> <span style="font-size:18px;">Broncos 27, Ravens 17</span></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 18px;"><strong>Related:</strong></span></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:14px;"><a href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/afc-divisional-playoff-preview-and-prediction-houston-texans-vs-new-england-patriots&quot;" target="_blank">AFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots</a><br />
<a href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/nfc-divisional-playoff-preview-and-prediction-green-bay-packers-vs-san-francisco-49ers" target="_blank">NFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Green Bay Packers vs. San Francisco 49ers</a><br />
<a href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/nfc-divisional-playoff-preview-and-prediction-seattle-seahawks-vs-atlanta-falcons" target="_blank">NFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Seattle Seahawks vs. Atlanta Falcons</a></span></p>
</div></div></div>Fri, 11 Jan 2013 18:00:00 +0000Mark Ross19405 at http://athlonsports.comPeyton Manning, Adrian Peterson Battle For MVP, Comeback Player of the Yearhttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/peyton-manning-adrian-peterson-battle-mvp-comeback-player-year
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<img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/35209-1/PeytonManning_650.jpg" style="width: 650px; height: 256px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; margin: 5px;" /></p>
<p>
With the 2012 NFL regular season in the books, it’s time to hand out awards to the league’s top talent. This year, there are more players deserving recognition than there are trophies to hand out. However, these are the select few Athlon Sports believes to be award-worthy:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Most Valuable Player</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>Peyton Manning, QB, Broncos</strong></span><br />
After missing the entire 2011 season following four neck surgeries, Manning returned to his four-time MVP form in 2012. In his 15th year in the league, but first as a member of the Broncos, the 36-year-old future Hall of Famer had the second-best statistical season of his storied career — passing for 4,659 yards (42 yards shy of his single-season best), 37 TDs (second-most of his career) and only 11 INTs (third-fewest of his career) for a 105.8 passer rating (second-highest of his career).<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Offensive Player of the Year</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings</strong></span><br />
Against all odds, Peterson stormed back from a brutal knee injury suffered on Christmas Eve last season. Peterson became the seventh player in history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season — with 348 carries for 2,097 yards, on a league-leading 6.0 yards per carry, and 12 TDs, while also hauling in 40 catches for 217 yards and one TD through the air.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Defensive Player of the Year</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>J.J. Watt, DE, Texans</strong></span><br />
With respect to Denver’s Von Miller and San Francisco’s Aldon Smith, Houston’s second-year behemoth out of Wisconsin was the most dominant all-around defender in the NFL this year. Commanding constant double-teams, Watt tallied 81 total tackles, including 69 solo stops, with 20.5 sacks, a record 16 pass deflections and four forced fumbles.</p>
<p>
<img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/35142-1/Robert-Griffin-III_650.jpg" style="width: 650px; height: 256px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; margin: 5px;" /><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Offensive Rookie of the Year</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>Robert Griffin III, QB, Redskins</strong></span><br />
RG3 headlines a crowded category that also includes Colts quarterback Andrew Luck, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, Redskins running back Alfred Morris and Buccaneers running back Doug Martin. But the Heisman Trophy winner deserves to take home the hardware — with 3,200 passing yards, 20 TDs and five INTs for a 102.4 passer rating, along with 815 rushing yards and seven TDs.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Defensive Rookie of the Year</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>Bobby Wagner, LB, Seahawks</strong></span><br />
Seattle’s second-round pick (No. 47 overall) was a relatively obscure middle linebacker out of Utah State who has developed into one of the leaders of the ball-Hawks from the Pacific Northwest. A playmaking threat from sideline-to-sideline, Wagner has notched 140 total tackles, three INTs and two sacks while starting 15 games for the Seahawks.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Co-Comeback Players of the Year</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>Peyton Manning, QB, Broncos<br />
Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings</strong></span><br />
Manning and Peterson both had seemingly super-human MVP-worthy comeback campaigns. In fact, they might be the best two injury bounce-backs in NFL history. Break out the scalpel and cut this award in half.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Coach of the Year</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>Bruce Arians, Colts</strong></span><br />
The former Steelers playcaller was charged with taking over the top spot in Indy on an interim basis after the leukemia diagnosis of first-year coach Chuck Pagano. Arians responded with a 9–3 record and playoff berth.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Executive of the Year</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>John Elway, Broncos</strong></span><br />
The Broncos’ boss man lassoed Peyton Manning in the offseason — one year after drafting Defensive Player of the Year candidate Von Miller. This one’s for John.<br />
</p>
</div></div></div>Thu, 03 Jan 2013 11:26:45 +0000Nathan Rush19140 at http://athlonsports.comDenver Broncos vs. Oakland Raiders Preview and Predictionhttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/denver-broncos-vs-oakland-raiders-preview-and-prediction
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The <strong>Denver Broncos</strong> aim for their 10th win of the season when they take on the <strong>Oakland Raiders </strong>tonight at 8:20 p.m. ET on the NFL Network. The Broncos (9-3) have won seven games overall and have already clinched the AFC West division title. The Raiders (3-9) have lost five in a row and would love nothing more than to get a win over the division champs and take some pressure off of first-year head coach Dennis Allen in the process.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/21157-1/MorenoK.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Denver Broncos have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Denver is fifth overall in total offense (386.9 ypg) and third in scoring at 29.1 points per game. The offense has been led by quarterback Peyton Manning, who has put together a MVP-worthy first season with the Broncos despite missing all of last season. Manning is the NFL’s second-rated passer (104.6) and is averaging 292 yards passing per game with 29 touchdowns and only nine interceptions. Wide receivers Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker have benefitted from having No. 18 pulling the trigger. This is especially the case for Thomas, who is tied for fourth in the league with 1,114 yards receiving, is averaging 16.1 yards per catch and has eight touchdown receptions. The Broncos are only 22nd in the league in rushing (103.3 ypg) and will be without running back Willis McGahee (torn MCL) until late in the playoffs. <strong>Knowshon Moreno</strong> has grabbed hold of the starting job in McGahee’s absence, and he should find success against a Raiders’ defense that’s ranked No. 28 (130.4 ypg) when it comes to stopping the run. The Broncos have been a little sloppy with ball security this season, as they have lost 13 fumbles.</p>
<p>
Oakland’s defense is ranked No. 28 in total defense, allowing 387 yards per game, and is dead last in scoring defense, surrendering 31.3 points per contest. They are allowing more than 130 yards rushing per game, and have allowed 129 yards or more to three different running backs, including 251 to Tampa Bay rookie Doug Martin in Week 9. The Raiders haven’t fared much better against the pass, as they have given up 256.5 yards per game through the air. They have allowed 24 touchdown passes compared to eight interceptions, and have forced a total of 15 turnovers. The pass rush has been non-existent as well, with only 14 sacks, the second-fewest in the entire league.</p>
<p>
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33898-1/CarsonPalmer_2012_300.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 318px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Oakland Raiders have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Oakland’s offense has been largely one-dimensional this season, as injuries in the backfield and a lack of production in the running game have placed much of the burden on quarterback <strong>Carson Palmer</strong>’s arm. The Raiders are 13th in the league in total offense, but 77 percent of their total yards have come via the pass. Palmer is seventh in the league in passing yards with 3,532, and tied for second in pass attempts with 503. However, he has thrown 13 interceptions with his 20 touchdown passes, which is part of the reason why he’s No. 20 in terms of passer rating and the Raiders are 23rd in the league in scoring (19.6 ppg). Oakland is near the bottom (29th) in rushing offense, as injuries have once again caused running back Darren McFadden to miss a significant amount of time. It’s possible McFadden will be able to play tonight, but that doesn’t change the fact that the Raiders as a team are averaging less than 83 yards on the ground per game and have scored a total of three rushing touchdowns this season. The leading receiver for the Raiders is tight end Brandon Myers, as wide receivers Denarius Moore and Darrius Heyward-Bey have been hampered by injuries and inconsistent production.</p>
<p>
As good as Denver’s offense has been, the defense has more than done its part this season. The Broncos are third in total defense, giving up 308.2 yards per game, and tied for ninth in points allowed at 20.3 per contest. They are sixth against the pass and seventh against the rush, and have yielded only five rushing touchdowns all season. The Broncos have the second-most sacks in the league (38), led by Defensive Player of the Year candidate Von Miller’s 15 quarterback takedowns. This unit has also picked off 14 passes and tallied four defensive touchdowns on the season.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Key Factor:</strong></span><br />
Even though the Broncos have clinched the AFC West title, there’s still seeding and home-field advantage to play for. With Houston (11-1) and New England (9-3) facing off on Monday night, the Broncos will either gain ground on the Texans or pass the Patriots for the No. 2 seed in the AFC, provided they take care of business in Oakland. Peyton Manning and Co. had no problems with the Raiders the first time they played, a 37-6 whitewashing in Week 4, and with the problems Oakland has had running the ball, scoring points, along with its defensive issues, there’s little reason to expect a different outcome. The Raiders have allowed 34 or more points in a game seven times this season. Don’t be surprised if it’s eight after tonight.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Prediction:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size:18px;">Broncos 34, Raiders 17</span></p>
</div></div></div>Thu, 06 Dec 2012 10:10:00 +0000Mark Ross17900 at http://athlonsports.comDenver Broncos vs. Atlanta Falcons Preview and Predictionhttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/denver-broncos-vs-atlanta-falcons-preview-and-prediction
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
<img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/21181-1/RyanM.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 5px; float: right;" />An excellent quarterback battle will be the focus on Monday Night Football, when the <strong>Atlanta Falcons </strong>host the<strong> Denver Broncos</strong> at 8:30 p.m. EST on ESPN. <strong>Matt Ryan</strong> and <strong>Peyton Manning</strong> led their respective clubs to double-digit victories in Week 1, with the Falcons beating the Chiefs on the road and the Broncos topping the Steelers at home. Both teams have legitimate Super Bowl aspirations this season, and a 2-0 start would go a long way towards having a successful year.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>When the Atlanta Falcons have the ball:</strong></span><br />
Ryan had a stellar opener in Kansas City, going 23-for-31 passing for 299 yards and three touchdowns. He also added a score on the ground. Roddy White and tight end Tony Gonzalez have been favorite targets during Ryan’s career, but second-year receiver Julio Jones led the way versus the Chiefs with six catches for 108 yards and two touchdowns. The Falcons passing game looks to be electric, but they will also need to get Michael Turner (32 yards at K.C.) and the running game going against Denver.<br />
<br />
The Broncos defense had trouble getting off the field against Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers, but holding Pittsburgh to 19 points and a late interception return touchdown made for a solid performance. Denver will need pass rushers Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil to pressure Ryan in this one, as covering all of Atlanta’s weapons can be quite the task. The Broncos limited big plays against the Steelers, and doing so once again will be critical against a fast-paced Falcons offense.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>When the Denver Broncos have the ball:</strong></span><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33094-1/Peyton_Manning.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 5px; float: right;" /><br />
Everyone around the NFL was anxious to see how Manning would look in his return from multiple neck surgeries, and the four-time MVP responded with 253 passing yards and two touchdowns. In fact, he became the third quarterback in league history to reach the 400-touchdown mark. The Broncos were especially effective when Manning went to the no-huddle attack, so look for more of the same in Atlanta.<br />
<br />
The Falcons gave up 17 points to the Chiefs in the first half but were able to shut down Kansas City in the second stanza, with the lone score coming with five seconds to go. Atlanta will face a tougher challenge this week with Manning and company, and the Falcons offense can help the defense greatly by winning the time of possession battle and keeping No. 18 off the field. Atlanta had three takeaways and three sacks versus the Chiefs, but the defense will have to absorb a major loss with Pro Bowl cornerback Brent Grimes suffering a season-ending Achilles tendon injury.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Key Factor:</span></strong><br />
Both defenses allowed well over 50-percent on third down conversions last week, and the unit that improves the most in that department will hold a huge advantage tonight. The Atlanta and Denver offenses will both earn plenty of yards, but the defense that can score or hold the opponent to field goals instead of touchdowns will prevail in this exciting matchup. The Falcons are 26-4 in the Georgia Dome with Matt Ryan at quarterback, so we’ll take Atlanta to win at home in a close one.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Prediction:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size:18px;">Falcons 27 Broncos 24</span><br />
<br />
<br />
---<em>By Patrick Snow</em> (<a href="https://twitter.com/AthlonSnowman" target="_blank">@AthlonSnowman</a>)<br />
</p>
</div></div></div>Mon, 17 Sep 2012 14:00:22 +0000Patrick Snow12377 at http://athlonsports.comPittsburgh Steelers vs. Denver Broncos Preview and Pickhttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers-and-denver-broncos-preview
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<img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33043-1/Broncos-inset.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 5px; float: right;" />He’s back. <strong>Peyton Manning</strong> will return to the NFL gridiron Sunday night at 8:20 p.m. EST on NBC, as the <strong>Denver Broncos</strong> host the <strong>Pittsburgh Steelers</strong> in a much-anticipated matchup that could set a regular-season ratings record. The four-time MVP quarterback has recovered from multiple neck surgeries and will try to lead Broncos back to the playoffs, where they ended the Steelers season a year ago. Pittsburgh will be extremely motivated to revenge that painful 29-23 overtime loss, while Denver will have to adjust to Manning on offense and new coordinator Jack Del Rio on defense.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>When the Denver Broncos have the ball:</strong></span><br />
We all know what Manning can do when healthy, but it will be interesting to see how long it takes him to develop chemistry with receivers Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas. The good news for No. 18 is that he will have quality offensive line and running game for the first time in almost a decade. Veteran runner Willis McGahee should take some pressure off Manning while the passing game develops.<br />
<br />
The Steelers defense ranked No. 1 in the NFL last season, giving up the fewest yards (271.8 per game) and points (14.2 per game) in the league. However the heralded Pittsburgh unit played its worst game of the season in the playoff loss to Denver, as intrepid coordinator Dick LeBeau faced rare criticism for his scheme in that game. It will be a different challenge against Manning, and the Steelers will be without the services of safety Ryan Clark (his sickle cell trait is a higher risk in Denver’s elevation) and linebacker James Harrison.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>When the Pittsburgh Steelers have the ball:</strong></span><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33051-1/BigBen-inset.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 5px; float: right;" /><br />
Ben Roethlisberger will be the focal point of the Pittsburgh attack once again, and he has two 1,100-yard receivers in Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown. Big Ben will need better offensive line play after being sacked 40 times last year, but he also needs to get rid of the ball quicker. The Steelers run game is a question mark with top back Rashard Mendenhall still recovering from a knee injury, so expect to see both Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer tote the rock.<br />
<br />
The Broncos defense will look for more consistency this season, and that will start by trying to force more turnovers. Denver only had 18 takeaways last year, compared to 28 for Del Rio’s old club in Jacksonville. The good news is that the Broncos can get to opposing quarterbacks, with pass rushers Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil combining for 21 of Denver’s 42 sacks in 2011.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Key Factor:</span></strong><br />
The adjustment to new players and coordinators will be critical on Sunday night. Manning’s rhythm passing usually takes a couple of games to get going, and Del Rio brings a new voice to the Denver defense. The Steelers have a new offensive coordinator in Todd Haley, and the defense will miss Clark and Harrison. But in a low-scoring affair, we’ll take the Pittsburgh defense to rebound in Denver and lead the way to an emotional win.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Prediction:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:18px;">Steelers 20 Broncos 17</span><br />
<br />
<br />
---<em>By Patrick Snow</em> (<a href="https://twitter.com/AthlonSnowman" target="_blank">@AthlonSnowman</a>)<br />
</p>
</div></div></div>Sat, 08 Sep 2012 12:00:21 +0000Patrick Snow12230 at http://athlonsports.comRob Gronkowski Flips On Monday Nighthttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/rob-gronkowski-flips-monday-night
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<strong>Rob Gronkowski, TE, Patriots</strong><br />
Tom Brady’s favorite target hauled in four catches for 96 yards and two memorable trips to the end zone — a 52-yard sprint down the sideline that put the 6'6", 265-pounder’s speed on display and a 19-yard dive over the goal line that flipped Gronkowski onto his neck before the second-year star staggered to his feet and spiked the ball. Gronkowski now has 20 TDs in his first 26 games, breaking Bears Hall of Famer Mike Ditka’s record (31) for fewest games by a tight end to score 20 TDs.</p>
<p>
<strong>Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers</strong><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/27340-1/RodgersAaron_001.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 375px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; margin: 5px; float: right;" /><br />
This season, even when Rodgers is “frustrated” with his performance on Sunday, he’s still one of the best in the business. The frontrunner for MVP completed 23-of-34 passes for 299 yards, three TDs and one INT in a 35–26 victory over the Buccaneers, as the Packers improved to 10–0. Rodgers has passed for 3,168 yards, a career-high 31 TDs and only four INTs for a 128.8 passer rating, adding another two TDs on the ground on Green Bay’s run of perfection.</p>
<p>
<strong>Matthew Stafford, QB, Lions</strong><br />
In a battle of former No. 1 overall picks, 2009’s numero uno outplayed 2011’s top selection, as Detroit rallied to beat Carolina and Cam Newton, 49–35. The Lions outscored the Panthers 35–8 in the second half, becoming the first team since 1950 to earn three come-from-behind wins of at least 17 points in the same season. Stafford threw a career-best five TDs, while Newton tossed a career-worst four INTs.</p>
<p>
<strong>Ray Rice, RB, Ravens</strong><br />
In a battle for AFC North supremacy, Baltimore outlasted Cincinnati, 31–24 — despite playing without middle linebacker and leader Ray Lewis for the first time in 58 games. The “other Ray” was in tip-top shape, however, as Rice ran by the Bengals with 20 carries for 104 rush yards and two short-yardage TDs, while adding five catches for 43 yards through the air. The Ravens have now won 15 of their last 16 home games.</p>
<p>
<strong>Von Miller, LB, Broncos</strong><br />
Although Tim Tebow scored the game-winning TD with 58 seconds left in the Broncos’ 17–13 win over the Jets on Thursday night, Denver’s defense deserves as much or more credit for the dramatic come-from-behind victory. Miller led the charge with 10 tackles, 1.5 sacks and one forced fumble, wreaking havoc off the edge and energizing the crowd, as the Broncos held the Jets to just 3-of-14 third-down conversions, forced six punts and created two turnovers.</p>
</div></div></div>Tue, 22 Nov 2011 01:26:22 +0000Nathan Rush7919 at http://athlonsports.comNFL Preseason Award Predictionshttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/nfl-preseason-award-predictions
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The 2011 NFL season kicks off with a Thursday night showdown between the last two Super Bowl champions, as Super Bowl XLIV MVP quarterback Drew Brees and the Saints march to Lambeau Field to take on Super Bowl XLV MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the Packers — in the first of 256 regular season games that span from Sept. 8 until Jan. 1, 2012.</p>
<p>
Before a snap has been taken, <em>Athlon Sports</em> looks into our crystal ball in an attempt to predict who will be award-worthy after the dust settles this season.</p>
<p>
<strong>Most Valuable Player</strong><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/25513-1/RodgersAaron.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 392px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; margin: 5px; float: right;" /><br />
<em><strong>Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers</strong></em><br />
Rodgers has already matched Brett Favre’s Super Bowl ring tally, but the leader in Titletown is three down to his predecessor in league MVP trophies. If the 27-year-old with the title belt can match his average stats as a starter — 4,131 yards, 29 TDs and 10 INTs; 293 rush yards and four scores per year since taking over for Favre three seasons ago — he will add a regular season MVP to the Super Bowl MVP he earned after knocking off the Steelers at Cowboys Stadium in February.</p>
<p>
<strong>Offensive Player of the Year</strong><br />
<em><strong>Michael Vick, QB, Eagles</strong></em><br />
Vick posted 3,018 yards, 21 TDs and only six INTs for a 100.2 passer rating, along with 676 rushing yards and nine TDs on the ground in only 12 games last season. As a result, the Eagles traded Kevin Kolb to the Cardinals and signed Vick to a six-year, $100 million contract. If the dual-threat lefty passer can stay healthy this season, he could put up his best numbers to date. Andy Reid and the Philly front office are banking on it.</p>
<p>
<strong>Defensive Player of the Year</strong><br />
<em><strong>Patrick Willis, LB, 49ers</strong></em><br />
Willis has taken over for Ray Lewis as the new standard for middle linebackers. New coach Jim Harbaugh will have the luxury of having a coach on the field. The 2007 Defensive Rookie of the Year has been named All-Pro in each of his four seasons. The next logical step is to receive the league’s top defensive honors.</p>
<p>
<strong>Offensive Rookie of the Year</strong><br />
<em><strong>Mark Ingram, RB, Saints</strong></em><br />
The 2009 Heisman Trophy winner from Alabama should see plenty of scoring opportunities as a featured weapon in the Saints’ high-octane attack. The namesake of the Giants’ Super Bowl-winning receiver, young Ingram’s physical running style will also be useful late in games where the Big Easy looks to run out the clock.</p>
<p>
<strong>Defensive Rookie of the Year</strong><br />
<em><strong>Von Miller, LB, Broncos</strong></em><br />
John Elway’s first draft choice since becoming Denver’s Executive VP of Football Operations, the No. 2 overall pick out of Texas A&amp;M will be counted on to rush the passer early and often. Teaming with edge-rusher Elvis Dumervil (17 sacks in ’09) to form the soon-to-be feared “Von Doom” duo, Miller has the best chance to put up the numbers necessary to take home the Defensive R.O.Y. hardware.</p>
<p>
<strong>Comeback Player of the Year</strong><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/20621-1/TonyRomo_002.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 392px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; margin: 5px; float: right;" /><br />
<em><strong>Tony Romo, QB, Cowboys</strong></em><br />
After suffering a fractured clavicle six games — and a 1–5 record — into the 2010 season, Romo was forced to watch as the Cowboys struggled to a 5–11 finish. Now, the pressure is on the three-time Pro Bowl signal-caller to deliver his fourth playoff berth as the starter in Big D. If Romo does that, Jerry Jones won’t call it a comeback — those are the results he expects — but the voters sure will.</p>
<p>
<strong>Coach of the Year</strong><br />
<em><strong>Jim Schwartz, Lions</strong></em><br />
Detroit has not had a winning record since 2000 and hasn’t been to the playoffs since 1999. If Schwartz can end either of those losing droughts — and it will take a healthy Matthew Stafford and dominant Ndamukong Suh — it will certainly be award-worthy.</p>
<p>
<strong>Executive of the Year</strong><br />
<em><strong>Ted Thompson, Packers</strong></em><br />
A little retroactive respect may be in order for the man who bit the bullet and sent Brett Favre packing — so to speak — in favor of Aaron Rodgers four years ago. Although Thompson did not make a major splash in free agency, his team will “acquire” several playmakers returning from injury — Ryan Grant and Jermichael Finley.<br />
</p>
</div></div></div>Thu, 08 Sep 2011 01:57:44 +0000Nathan Rush6425 at http://athlonsports.com